Editing Umpire (cricket) (section)

== Positions ==
[[File:Cricketfieldingpositions.jpg|thumb|450px|right|The normal positions for the two on-field umpires are shown with the blue squares.]]

When a ball is being bowled, one umpire (the ''bowler's end umpire'') stands behind the [[stumps]] at the non-striker's end (that is, the end from which the ball is being bowled), which gives them a view straight down the pitch.

The second (the ''striker's end umpire'') takes the position that they feel gives them the best view of the play.  Through long tradition, this is usually square leg – in line with the popping crease and a few yards to the batsman's leg side – hence they are sometimes known as the ''square leg umpire''.

However, if a fielder takes up position at ''square leg'' or somewhere so as to block their view, or if there is an injured batsman with a runner, then the umpire must move somewhere else – typically either a short distance or to ''point'' on the opposite side of the batsman. If the square-leg umpire elects to stand at point, they are required to inform both the batsmen, the captain of the fielding team, and their colleague. They may also move to the point position later in the afternoon if the setting sun prevents a clear view of the popping crease at their end.

It is up to the umpires to keep out of the way of both the ball and the players. In particular, if the ball is hit and the players attempt a run, then the umpire behind the stumps will generally retreat to the side, in case the fielding side attempts a ''run out'' at that end.

At the end of each over, the two umpires will exchange roles. Because the bowler's end alternates between overs, this means they only move a short distance.